North Dakota ACLC Prayer Breakfast: Peace for Sudan

October 27, 2007

13 loving souls gathered at the Chapel of the Edgewood Vista Senior Citizen Community Center. The Center was newly opened last month and they were happy to let us use of their chapel for our event.
The Topic was "Peace in Sudan & the Role of the United Nations". Guest Speaker Rev. Dr. Sirisio Louis Oromo drove to Fargo from South Dakota. He is an ordained Lutheran Minister and native of Southern Sudan. He has been working tirelessly to bring peace and stability to his homeland. His coming attracted an interested group. Fargo has been the new home of many who fled the war in Sudan. We are proud of our Sudanese friends, who despite their abuse in their homeland, are now standing up strongly and taking responsibility to rebuild Sudan. Our consciences are moved by them to understand and to do what we can to relieve their suffering.

Rev. Oromo's message began with a call to look closely inside ourselves. Don't condemn others. Religions that do so cause wars. Human beings cause war, not God. Religion means "good faith", but we made it something different. First be honest with your self, and change yourself. Selfishness creates injustice toward others. Don't seek to destroy the enemy, destroy the hate and enmity between you. God does not get rid of an enemy because he sees all of us as a parent sees.

The British who colonized Sudan gave the most attention to the Arab North, while Southern Sudan was influenced mainly by the missionaries. The more developed North began to unjustly plunder the resource- rich South when independence came in the early 1950's. Fighting has continued since that time, at first between Muslims & Christians, but as of late, mainly over natural resources.

There is a window of opportunity with the present peace agreement, in which the South is to share in about 25% of the government positions, and the oil is to be shared 50/50. Rev. Oromo has been offered a government position and is considering taking it, although he is somewhat wary because he knows the difficulty and corruption that he will need to endure. There are already violations of the peace agreement taking place.

Rev. Oromo shared the real situation of today's Sudan, its government system and life in refugee camps. For Americans who have lived a blessed life, the Sudanese situation is difficult to understand and bear. Our hearts were left heavy with the reality of life in Sudan.

God inspired the words of Mike McGregor after the Keynote address. Mike is a leader of faith at First Assembly of God in Fargo. He is also a physician's assistant and a Captain in the U.S. Army Reserves (now retired). He was deployed to Iraq as "Medical Officer in Charge" in 2003. He spoke of how his strong faith was his greatest instrument of protection and strength during his 1 1/2 year deployment in Iraq. Even as shells exploded in his compound, he felt no fear because he felt the love of Christ constantly with him. He personally encouraged each of us, as we go into the dangerous arenas of conflict, to have no fear and believe that God will protect and use each of us to fulfill his will.

---

We were blessed with the attendance of Fargo writer and humanitarian Deb Dawson. She is coordinating a project with "Lost Boy of Sudan" Joseph Markeer. Joseph and Deb have begun their "mission" by promoting Joseph's book called "African Soul and American Heart". They are raising funds to send Joseph and a film crew to create a documentary film about life in Sudan. They are planning a trip to Southern Sudan in December. As a mother who has adopted and raised international children from Siberia and Korea, Deb feels a deep parental love for Joseph and the other lost boys of Sudan. She is determined to aid him in fulfilling his goal to build an orphanage in Sudan.

Cindy Pfeiffer shared with us at breakfast, the importance of the Universal Peace Federation. She recently attended its convocation in New York City, where Ambassadors of Peace from 197 nations met. A major aim of the UPF is to install an Inter-religious council as a major component of the United Nations, where true religious leader can address concerns with a universal perspective rather than a nationally centered perspective. Cindy is helping Kenneth Masunga organize his efforts to make substantial improvements in Sudan.

Mr. Kenneth Adams Masungu from Sudan spoke about his " Young Shepherd Project ". It is an effort to build a school and hospital in his home village near Juba, Sudan. Kenneth's daughter Roza came along to support Rev. Oromo and her father. Jean Albert, a strong mother in theSudanese community, spoke compassionately and offered her beautiful smile. She is always working hard to love her Sudanese family, even as she is battling cancer. Both Jean and Roza gave heartfelt testimonies of their concern for Sudan.

At the end of the program, we stood hand in hand while Rev. Oromo gave the Benediction Prayer. We are all hopeful that our Prayer Breakfast will be a building block towards the future peaceful Sudan and world.
Thanks to Toshiko Olson, Erica Trenbeath, & Michael Trenbeath for their support in helping to organize our event!

Reported by: John & Keiko Foss

One Global Family or the Clash of Civilizations?

Is a catastrophic world conflict inevitable?

Here is an interview with Dr. Antonio Betancourt, Director of the Office of Government Relations of The Universal Peace Federation, Washington, D.C.

He give us an excellent understanding of the importance of the "Ambassador's for Peace" movement in changing the course of of world politics.

Ambassadors of Peace are using the following principles to reshape their feeling, thinking and actions:

1. God is the Parent of all humankind.
2. All of us are essentially spiritual beings.
3. All families must be restored as cornerstones of the peaceful world.
4. The principle of living for the sake of others is the prime principle upon which the universe was created.
5. We live for others by respecting their religions and ideologies and by working together with them.

Please take a few minutes to see this video.........

Watch One Global Family or the Clash of Civilizations? - The Defining Moment Television Talk Show in Entertainment Videos  |  View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com

North Dakota ACLC Prayer Breakfast - September 29, 2007

---

It was a sunny Saturday morning in Fargo ND at the end of September, and a perfect environment for the warming of hearts. This Month's topic was "Peace", related with the International Day of Peace established by the United Nations, September 21st 1981. North Dakota Coordinator Keiko Foss began by welcoming the guests and introducing ACLC , as she read the purpose and goal statement. She believes peace begins from the individual and expands to the family, society, nation and world with the unity mind and body. Then we embrace others, especially our enemies and those difficult to love with True Love. Keiko also inspired all with reflections from her recent trip to the Holy lands.

AFC coordinator Cindy Pfeiffer shared the "Proclamation for the Day of Peace" from the Fargo Mayor's Office. Cindy has recently returned from New York where she attended the gathering of world representatives from all 191 nations. It was an amazing "Inter-religious" symposium to encourage the United Nations to follow internal directives centering on God from a council of inter-religious leaders rather than merely national-centered, secular interests. Cindy attended our event with her sister Joan Poer who is always a great supporter of our activities, adding a spark of beauty and brightness.

Rev. John Foss introduced the keynote speaker, Rev. Carl Swearson. He is a native North Dakotan, from Lutheran background, now Region 8 Director of the Family Federation for World Peace. He is from Missouri, where he lives with his family of seven.

Rev. Swearson's topic was "Living for the Sake of Others". He explain how it is an easy concept for all to agree on, but a difficult one to carry out. He cited examples from Jesus life, and his total rejection and abandonment by both his family and diciples. The Kingdom is not far from those who can Love God and Mankind with their whole hearts all the time. He was well received by all the guests.

Remarks were given by Doris Bromenschenkel, wife of the former Vice Mayor and City Commissioner. She spoke on Inner Peace. It begins from the Heart. She read a beautiful poem about peace. Our thoughts and prayers are with Doris's Daughter Jill suffering from Lupus.

During breakfast, we all introduce each other. The 12 of us sat in a "U" shape and our sharing brought a feeling of closeness.

Cheryl Bergian, Executive Director from The North Dakota Human Rights Coalition shared about her program and personal life.

Hisako and Masayo from the Japanese Ladies Luncheon Group of Fargo added interesting flavor to our meeting. Along with Toshiko & Keiko, they sang "Furusato" and tearfully reflected on their home town in Japan. All sang "God Bless America" and ended in a hand-held Prayer.

Thanks to Rev. Carl Swearson who made a heroic last minute effort to support our meeting, Keiko & Toshiko for all the ACLC meeting organizing, communications & setup, Michael and Erica Trenbeath for coming early and handing greeting and registration. Thanks all for helping make our event successful!

---

Reported by John Foss

Click on the Video Player below to enjoy the Breakfast:

Rev. Mark Abernathy speaks at ND ACLC Prayer Breakfast

North Dakota held it's first ACLC Prayer Breakfast Saturday:

We were so blessed to welcome Rev. Mark Abernathy in Fargo ND. He brought a bit of the fire from his New Life Assembly ministry in Atlanta GA . He arrived Friday afternoon. We were invited to a wonderful diner at host minister Rev. Terry Tilton's favorite family restaurant in Breckenridge Minnesota. We discussed faith and reviewed the next day's program. Rev. Tilton's understanding of History and conditions of our area enriched our understanding. We also could experience the depth and commitment to the high principles of God embedded in Rev. Abernathy's character.

Rev. Terry Tilton and Rev. Grael Gannon intensely listen to Rev. Mark Abernathy's passion. All three are alumni of the Causa Providential work and went to Korea in the 1980's

13 of us gathered the next morning at the Fargo Doublewood Inn at 8:30. It was cozy and friendly atmosphere. We had the opportunity to introduce all who were present.

Welcoming comments were given by Rev. Grael Gannon. Rev. Gannon is a recently retired Minister, Principle and History Teacher from Bismark ND. At 72, He now attends graduate school in Fargo. He welcomed Mark to North Dakota and reminded us that in this crowded, stressful and corrupt world, North Dakota is still a place where there is open space, fresh air and a place where many feel safe enough not to lock their doors. Rev. Gannon also reminded us that although it is difficult for us to dialog with those who disagree with us, when we do dialog, we begin to see each other as human beings with valid points of view, and leave behind our stereotypes and caricatures.

Terry Tilton opened with a prayer that solemnly reminded us of the parable of the vineyard, and that we have brought sorrow to God by not bearing the intended good fruit. We have instead raised a garden of strife and conflict. His prayer for True Peace was heartfelt by all in the room.

---

Rev. Terry Tilton______________________________ ____________ Kenneth Masungu

Pihsia Su ___________________________________________Rev. Grael Gannon

Kenneth Masungu, Educator and High School Principle from Sudan introduced himself and spoke of his work to bring reform in the educational system in South Sudan. He is in the Doctorate Program at NDSU.

Pihsia Su, originally from Taiwan, represented leading women in business in our area. She is a bio-chemist working at the one of Fargo's fastest growing businesses, and the largest research facility of it's kind in the world today. She appreciates the kind spirit of the area and was happy to attend our breakfast.

---

Rev. Abernathy spoke on Cleaning Our House. We clean it by getting involved. Not only must we have great ideas, not only must we pray, not only must we act.....we must place ourselves in situations where we can make a difference, work outside of our boxes, our comfort zone. We must do thing on purpose, through our own initiative to make this world connect. If we want to change someone and really help them, we must become involved in there life. True Love requires us to do unusual things, and live for the sake of others.

• "Staying behind the pulpit doesn't get you much...you have to be out in the world loving the people"
• "give legs to your prayer"

God can be lost in one generation. Faith is fading because too much of the world is being brought into our homes. The first generation is not teaching the second generation. The second generation does not understand what they went through to get where we are today.

The world is going to "hell in a hand basket". We have to change it on purpose!!!!.................................

---

I will do my best to upload a video of the event for all to view at: http://www.ndfamilychurch.blogspot.com/

Thanks to ACLC for sending us such a wonderful representative

The Trenbeath, Olson, Pfeiffer, and Foss families all had representatives the served the event with humble dignity.

Thank you All!

And Thanks to Keiko Foss for taking the developmental intuitive to spear head this historic event for our state. We will have a meeting next month on Saturday the 29Th.

Reported by: John Foss

---

Family Federation for World Peace and Unification of U.S.A.

America's Destiny Tour
One Family Under God - Hope · Harmony · Healing

~ Mrs. Jun Sook Kwak Moon ~

"Pacific Rim Era in God's Providence"

May 31, 2007 - North Dakota

Jun Sook Kwak Moon made the 11th stop of her 19-state tour in Fargo, North Dakota, on Thursday evening, May 31. She was greeted there by close family members and friends who gathered at Holiday Inn’s Sterling Room. Present were community and youth leaders from both Christian and Muslim faiths. The event was strongly supported and participated in by the Pfeiffer and Tobkin familes. It was the first such event in our state since Father’s 50 State Tour in 2001

Guests enjoyed a banquet preprogram with entertainment by "Talent Productions"

John Foss read a moving letter from a state official that showed he understood the worldwide importance of Mrs. Jun Sook Nim’s work.

Rev. Carl Swearson, a native North Dakotan, was the MC, relaxed and energetic. No one could have guessed that he was conducting the 6th of 7 events in his region as part of a nonstop state-to-state tour.

Kenneth Masunga, an educator from Sudan, supported our event with his family of 11. He was our first guest participant in the burning ceremony.

Chris and Joan Poer were a representative couple for the Holy Wine Blessing. Looking at each other with love in their eyes, they led the assembly in the holy wine ceremony.

Bishop Ki Hoon Kim, national officer of the American Clergy Leadership Conference, gave the welcoming address. His presentation was short and to the point. It served the purpose of bridging our local community’s mindset of local concerns with the global perspective of True Parents’ work.

The video presentation “One Family Under God” received many compliments. Some expressed that it was of the best videos our movement has ever produced. It shows the essence of our work in a very matter-of-fact way, and let that work stand for itself without extra promotion.

Mary Marshall returned to the stage for the featured musical performance, “Shed a Little light”. It was perfectly placed in the program as a heartfelt cry for all to become one under God.

The introduction to the keynote speaker was given by Rev. Jesse Edwards. It was a spirited presentation reminding everyone that God, not humans, define the family by His creation of man and woman. He emphasized that God’s family includes all the people. I could see our Muslim guests beaming at being recognized as valid children of God by a Pentecostal minister.

Mrs. Jun Sook Kwak Moon gave a heart-filled introduction that showed an amazing understanding of the mind of our local people. She seemed to know just what to say to resonate with our hearts. She went on to convey Father’s words with dignity, beauty, and grace. She is a living definition of the meaning of “lineage of God”. Flowers in a full spectrum of colors were presented by Chris and Joan Poer. A “Crystal Heart” from the “Heartland” was presented to Jun Sook Nim by Lisa McCaslin.

Connie Stoll and Joan Poer followed Jun Sook Nim’s lead in the signing of the Declaration of Peace. The signature-filled declaration will be a treasure for our state. Ambassador for Peace Appointments were gratefully received. The guests remained long afterward, discussing and writing the reflections reported above.

We are eternally grateful to True Parents and True Family for the love they invest into completing the Ideal of God.

Guest Testimonies From Jun Sook Nim’s Event in Fargo, May 31, 2007:

This program was wonderful. It encouraged those who have recently been married to be more united to one another in their respective families, and we appreciate it. God bless Jun Sook Kwak Moon: Thank you so much far all of the sacrifices you have made to all of us. We know how important this is for world peace and true family. And we pray that soon we will all be united under one family and faith. Thank you so much.”
Linda

“Mrs. Jun Sook Kwak Moon, I thank God for sending such a very beautiful and humble representative to Fargo, North Dakota. Your message is one of hope for families and the world. I pray that God will continue to bless you and the World Peace Tour. I feel that we are each alive at a very important time in history and must do our part to continue to strive for the goal of world peace and truly one nation under God. Thank you so much for the time and effort you and your family continue to put forth to achieve God’s heavenly kingdom here on earth. God bless you.”
Connie, Dent, Minnesota

“Jun Sook Kwak Moon, Thank you so much for coming to the town of Fargo to preach the word of our Lord. I really enjoyed your words of wisdom. Hopefully I will carry out to others what you have taught me here tonight. It was a pleasure to hear you and also an experience for me. Thanks again.”
Mari, Fargo

“Dear Mrs. Moon, It was a great honor to hear you read Father Moon’s speech. It was also a great honor for my wife, Joan, and I to present you with flowers. This is an experience we will never forget. We will truly work hard to realize the goal of one family under God.”
Chris Poer, Hillsboro

“Mrs. Jun Sook Kwak Moon—First, I was struck by your great beauty on the outside! It soon became evident that this beauty transcends clear to your inner being. God has given you the voice, beauty, and aura of peace that enable you to reach and touch the hearts and minds of many. I will take the message you have conveyed and carry it into my home, where I hope to rise above the “ordinary” to be a beacon of light for what it means to represent a ‘true family.’ Thank you for your message! God’s blessings!”
Sharie, Fargo

Photos by Peter Holden